LA MOTOR SHOW: 2024 Subaru Forester revealed

The sixth-generation 2024 Subaru Forester has debuted officially at the LA motor show, underpinned by a reworked version of the Subaru Global Platform (SPG) and donning an entirely new look.

Subaru Australia is yet to confirm when we’ll see its new mid-size SUV on local soil, but previous timelines suggest it’ll be sometime next year – likely between July and December.

The new Toyota RAV4 rival model measures 4656mm long, 1829mm wide, 1730mm tall and rides on a 2670mm wheelbase, making it both longer and wider than the fifth-generation Forester released in 2018, but the same height and with an identical wheelbase.

Subaru claims the Forester’s version of the SPG has been stiffened by 10 per cent thanks to stronger welding techniques and additional structural adhesive, which combine to yield better dynamics and a quieter ride, but there’s no mention of weight.

No major changes are listed for the suspension, though there’s little doubt the front McPherson strut and rear multi-link set-up will have been retuned for a improved ride-handling balance as well as reduced NVH levels.

The tweaked underpinnings are paired with a new WRX-derived electronic power steering system said to provide “a more direct and natural steering feel and greater responsiveness”.

Hiding under the bonnet is the same 2.5-litre flat four-cylinder petrol engine as the current model, outputting slightly altered 134kW/241Nm outputs – 2kW less but 2Nm more than the current version – and still driving all four wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The Forester has long been one of the most capable car-based (monocoque) mid-size SUVs off-road, thanks to its symmetrical all-wheel-drive, generous ground clearance and nifty X-Mode drive modes, all of which have been improved for the new generation.

Subaru says ground clearance is up to 221mm (+1mm), the all-wheel drive system now reacts faster and the off-road driver aids (hill descent control, X-Mode, incline start assist, etc) all score upgraded software.

Anyone familiar with Subaru’s latest cabin design language should feel immediately home in the new Forester because the interior bears a striking resemblance to that of the latest Outback, WRX and Crosstrek in featuring an 11.6-inch portrait-style touch-screen infotainment system, while drivers are greeted by a chunky multi-function steering wheel and meaty gear selector.

Unfortunately, the signature infotainment system isn’t offered on the base model, at least in the US, where the entry-level variant makes do with a dual-screen set-up comprising two 7.0-inch interfaces, the top one of which is used for infotainment and reversing camera duties, while the bottom one is reserved for the climate control system.

Changes across the range, however, include new seats, an occupied seat-focused dual-zone climate control system and extra soundproofing.

Other standard features across the range include alloy wheels, keyless entry/start, tyre pressure monitoring, steering-responsive automatic LED headlights, welcome lighting, powered side mirrors, smartphone mirroring and new heavy-duty utility hooks in the boot.

Active safety continues to be taken care of by Subaru’s proprietary EyeSight suite, which has been upgraded to be faster, more decisive and smoother in its interventions over a greater range of conditions.

“For the first time on a Subaru, Emergency Stop Assist activates if the driver becomes unresponsive to warnings while using Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control,” Subaru said.

“The new standard safety feature will stop the vehicle, activate the hazard lights, and unlock the doors. Subaru Starlink Connected Services will then place a call to emergency services.”

Four trim levels will be offered in North America: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited and Touring, all of which will launch next spring – our autumn.

Join the conversation at 

our Facebook page

Or email us at 

editor@carsales.com.au